Welcome to Gaynor.
When I was a young boy, I remember visiting my grandparents, Mimi Michael and Bert Schoeneman, at Stephen Gaynor School. I recall the flurry of activity in the school as the children and teachers traveled up and down the grand marble staircase of the West 74th Street brownstone. While the building housed a school, it felt more like a home. The students always seemed so happy and at ease. The teachers were friendly and attentive to each child’s needs.
Prior to serving as head of school, I had a long career in banking. One day, it occurred to me that if I didn’t come into work, everything would continue on without me. I wanted my work to make a difference every day. I started working at Stephen Gaynor School in 1994 and haven’t looked back. I soon realized that it wasn’t just the building that made it feel like a home, but also the mission of the school. Teachers, specialists, and administrators all work together to bring the curriculum to each child, enabling them to become confident and successful students. Though the school has now expanded to two buildings, the feeling is the same. Gaynor continues to be a home that fosters a love for learning.
Students receive remediation in the areas in which it is needed and have the chance to cultivate skills in which they excel. With small class sizes, a challenging curriculum, and strong partnerships among parents, teachers, and students, Stephen Gaynor School gives students the skills to unlock their full potential.
Our expert faculty develop an individualized curriculum tailored to the specific needs of each student and provide a variety of co-curricular activities – athletics, art, music, drama, digital photography, technology, and an engaging, diversified After School program. The Yvette Siegel-Herzog Performing Arts Center (PAC) serves as the heart of Gaynor’s performing arts program, offering a flexible 300-seat theater that transforms into a dynamic space for performances, assemblies, and school-wide events. Our two athletic spaces provide students with opportunities to develop teamwork, confidence, and school spirit through physical education and sports programs.
At Gaynor, we celebrate the diversity of our learners and the many individual identities that make up our community. We believe that a diverse community is a stronger community because it fosters empathy, curiosity, and understanding. Our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion enriches the educational experience for all students, helping them see the value in themselves and one another.
The Parents’ Association also offers numerous opportunities for students, families, and parents to get involved. Opportunities include events to help our parent community continue to learn different ways to support their students and help them become compassionate individuals who can advocate on behalf of themselves and others.
Learn more about Stephen Gaynor School on our website. Even more importantly, I invite you to visit our school. Tour our facilities, speak with our teachers, meet our students – and discover what makes Stephen Gaynor School such a unique place.
Warmest Regards,
Dr. Scott Gaynor
Head of School
